Thank's for the report Steve. It was a couple of years since my last Sudan-trip, but I'm planning to revisit in spring 06. I have only once before heard a diver returning from Sudan "disappointed" about the diving - she went in october. All the information I have gathered through the years together with personal experience tells me that march-april seems to be the best time for diving Sudan and june-august for Egypt. I've only done one trip outside the spring season (august 99), and all the spring trips have been about ten times better (ok, a little bit exaggerated). However, I must admit, that the chance of seeing the manta dance in mesharifa in september-october, which I have never had the chance to do personally, sounds very tempting. A friend said it was spectacular with 20-30 mantas during a single dive. But I've understood that the gatherings are sensitive when it comes to weather, you need the exact right wind/water conditions. And if there are no mantas in this location, which is very specific, there is nothing else to see. So, a bit of a gamble.
Personally I think the quality of the diving is the real benefit in Sudan compared to Egypt, not that it's less crowded than most places in Egypt. Diversity and quantity is a lot better. Coral is a draw I would say, compared to the best unspoilt (if you can find them) sites in Sinai.
Good luck with your next trip.
Christian
Personally I think the quality of the diving is the real benefit in Sudan compared to Egypt, not that it's less crowded than most places in Egypt. Diversity and quantity is a lot better. Coral is a draw I would say, compared to the best unspoilt (if you can find them) sites in Sinai.
Good luck with your next trip.
Christian
